A comprehensive data collection and processing protocol for general aviation pilot performance assessment and behaviour research

January 1, 2025·
Rongbing Xu
,
Shi Cao
,
Michael Barnett-Cowan
,
Gulnaz Bulbul
,
Elizabeth Irving
,
Suzanne K Kearns
,
Ewa Niechwiej-Szwedo
· 1 min read
Abstract
This technical report presents a comprehensive data collection and processing protocol designed for assessing general aviation pilot performance and supporting behaviour research. The protocol integrates multiple data sources including flight simulator data, e-plane telemetry, traditional aircraft performance metrics, instructor assessments, physiological biomarkers, and eye tracking measurements. The framework addresses the critical need for standardized, objective measures in pilot training evaluation, moving beyond traditional flight-hour-based models toward data-driven competency assessment. This protocol serves as a foundational resource for researchers and practitioners working to transform ab initio pilot training through evidence-based methodologies.
Type
Publication
WISA Technical Report (2025-001)
publications

This technical report outlines a standardized protocol for collecting and processing multi-modal pilot performance data. The protocol supports the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA) initiative to transform pilot training through objective, data-driven assessment methods.